New Testament
Matthew 13:47
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"The kingdom of heaven is also like a large net thrown into the sea that caught all kinds of fish.
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Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:
What Matthew 13:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a large fishing net. Just as a net gathers all kinds of fish from the sea, the kingdom of heaven encompasses people from all walks of life. This imagery highlights the inclusivity of God's kingdom, where everyone is invited to be part of it, regardless of their background or past. The net represents the call to salvation, which is open to all. However, just as fishermen sort the catch, there will be a time of judgment when people are separated based on their acceptance of God's message. This parable emphasizes both the vastness of God's grace and the seriousness of the final judgment, reminding us that while the invitation is broad, the response to it is crucial.
How to apply Matthew 13:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to embrace the diversity of people in our communities and share the message of God's love with everyone. It reminds us that we should not judge others based on their past but invite them to experience the grace of God, knowing that everyone has the potential to be transformed.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Parables by the Sea (Matthew 13:1–52)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 13:47 mean?
Matthew 13:47 compares the kingdom of heaven to a large net that gathers all kinds of fish, symbolizing the inclusivity of God's kingdom where everyone is invited to participate, regardless of their background.
What is the meaning of the net in Matthew 13:47?
The net in Matthew 13:47 represents the call to salvation, illustrating how God's message reaches all people. It also foreshadows the final judgment where individuals will be sorted based on their acceptance of this message.
How does Matthew 13:47 relate to judgment?
Matthew 13:47 indicates that just as fishermen sort their catch, there will be a time of judgment in God's kingdom where people are separated based on their acceptance of His message.
What themes are present in Matthew 13:47?
Key themes in Matthew 13:47 include the kingdom of heaven, inclusivity, judgment, salvation, and God's grace, all illustrated through the metaphor of fishing.
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